Heavy Rainfall Triggers Road Closures and Evacuations Across Leicestershire and Rutland

Extensive rainfall resulted in the closure of numerous roads throughout Leicestershire and Rutland due to floodwaters. Storm Bert delivered significant precipitation to the nation over the weekend, prompting 161 flood warnings and 213 flood alerts solely within England. The Leicestershire and Rutland Local Resilience Partnership reported that several roads were closed, including Crow Mills in Countesthorpe, Mythe Lane in Witherley, Hoby Road in Asfordby, and Slash Lane in Sileby. Additionally, in Rutland, the A6003 Caldecott, A6003 Manton Bridge, Stockerston Road in Uppingham, and Stoke Road in Lyddington experienced flood-related disruptions. Leicestershire Police stated that multiple roads in Market Harborough were closed on Sunday evening because of flooding. The police force issued an advisory around 21:30 GMT, urging motorists to steer clear of Kettering Road, Rectory Lane, Scotland Road, St Nicholas Close, and Northampton Road; however, these routes have since become accessible again. The River Jordan’s water levels also increased in Braybrooke and Little Bowden. The partnership confirmed that residents were evacuated on Sunday night, and the public was instructed to stay away from the vicinity. The partnership urged drivers to make advance preparations, refrain from driving into floodwater, and observe road closure signs and prevailing road conditions. Rail services on the East Midlands Main Line were also disrupted on Sunday due to flooding and landslips occurring between Market Harborough and Kettering. Nevertheless, Network Rail inspectors have since authorized the resumption of services according to the regular timetable on Monday. For updates, follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.